How to Install Device Driver Software

New devices such as printers, modems, wireless cards, Web cameras and keyboards require device drivers to function properly. The device drivers are the set of instructions that tell the operating system how to optimally use the device. A device might work without drivers, but you may be losing functionality and stability by not having the most current updates. It is important to install the driver that is specifically made for the device's model number and operating system.

Driver Disc

Navigate to the correct folder in the disc's directory. There may be two directories, one for OS X and one for Windows. There may also be different directories for different versions of Windows and OS X.

Double-click on the icon for the driver installer and follow the onscreen instructions.

Restart the computer.

Download Driver Software

Navigate to the manufacturer's website and find the "Support" or "Drivers" section.

Enter the model number of the device or find it in the list or drop-down menu depending on the site. Choose the correct operating system.

Download the driver installer.

Open the installer and follow the onscreen instructions.

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From an .inf File

Navigate to the correct inf file. It is very important that the correct file is chosen, as this is a very raw method of installing drivers. The inf will be specific to the device's model number and the operating system.

Right-click on the inf file and click "Install."

Restart the computer.

Device Manager

Open the "Start" menu and type "device manager" into the search field. Press "Enter."

Locate the device in the Device Manager.

Right-click on the device and select "Properties."

Click the "Driver" tab and select "Update Drivers." Allow the Hardware Update Wizard to locate, download and install the driver.